A Selected Collection of
Wuyi Rock Oolong
(Wuyi Yan Cha)
Wuyi Rock Oolong
(Wuyi Yan Cha)
The Jewel of Fujian’s Tea Heritage
Wuyi Rock Tea, also known as Yan Cha (岩茶), is a celebrated oolong tea grown in the rocky, mineral-rich soil of the Wuyi Mountains in northern Fujian Province. The unique terroir of this region, characterized by steep cliffs and nutrient-dense soil, gives Wuyi Rock Tea its distinctive “rock charm” (岩韵, Yan Yun)—a mineral-rich aroma and flavor that sets it apart from other teas. Due to the challenging growing conditions and lower yields, Wuyi Rock Tea is highly prized and often commands a premium price. Teas made from older tea bushes, such as the legendary Da Hong Pao (Big Red Robe), are particularly rare and valuable, with some varieties being worth more than their weight in gold.
Wuyi Rock Tea is recognized as a protected product of origin by the Chinese government, ensuring its authenticity and quality. According to national standards, it is classified as an oolong tea produced using unique traditional processing techniques that highlight its rocky essence and complex flavor profile. This tea is a testament to the harmony between nature and craftsmanship, offering a sensory experience that is both rich and refined.
Wuyi Rock Tea is renowned for its semi-fermented processing, which combines the delicate fragrance of green tea with the mellow richness of black tea. The result is a tea with a robust, mineral-rich aroma and a smooth, lingering sweetness that leaves an unforgettable aftertaste. This distinctive “rock charm” is what makes Wuyi Rock Tea a favorite among tea connoisseurs and a representative of China’s finest teas.
Wuyi Rock Tea has a storied history that dates back over a thousand years. It gained prominence during the Tang Dynasty and was honored as a royal tribute in the Song Dynasty. By the Yuan Dynasty, an imperial tea garden was established in the Wuyi Mountains, further cementing its status as a tea of unparalleled quality.
The tea is derived from wild varieties of tea plants, including some of the most famous cultivars such as: 1. Da Hong Pao (Big Red Robe): The most legendary and expensive of Wuyi Rock Teas, known for its complex flavor and rich aroma. 2. Tie Luo Han (Iron Arhat): A robust tea with a deep, earthy flavor. 3. Shui Jin Gui (Golden Water Turtle): A smooth and aromatic tea with a hint of sweetness. 4. Bai Ji Guan (White Cockscomb): A delicate tea with a light, floral fragrance.
These four varieties are collectively known as the “Four Famous Firs of Wuyi” (武夷四大名枞), representing the pinnacle of Wuyi Rock Tea. Other notable varieties include Rou Gui (Cinnamon), Shui Xian (Narcissus), and Ban Tian Yao (Half-Sky Demon), each offering its own unique flavor profile.
Wuyi Rock Tea is more than just a beverage, it’s an experience. Its complex flavors, mineral-rich aroma, and historical significance make it a treasure of Chinese tea culture. Whether you’re a seasoned tea enthusiast or new to the world of oolong, Wuyi Rock Tea offers a journey into the heart of Fujian’s tea heritage.
Explore our collection of Wuyi Rock Teas and discover why this rock-grown masterpiece has captivated tea lovers for centuries.